KOTA KINABALU: The new Sabah DAP Wanita line-up will advocate for 30% women representation in decision-making roles and election candidacies and push for the state to raise the minimum marriage age to 18.
These initiatives are among the key resolutions passed during the Sabah DAP Wanita ordinary convention on Sunday (Jan 19), said its new chief Bronica Sikula.
Other resolutions were to call for a gender inclusivity policy to reduce discrimination and promote equal opportunities for all, including women, youth and marginalised groups as well as to support DAP's zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
"We also aim to push for enhanced support for single mothers to improve their quality of life and access to various opportunities," Sikula said after the convention.
Sikula said that raising the minimum age of marriage would require amendments to the Native Court Enactment 1992.
She thanked outgoing Wanita chief Clare Taunek for her leadership and dedication, pledging to continue working hard to achieve more with the new committee.
The convention was chaired by DAP Wanita vice chief Kasthuriraani Patto, which was also attended by DAP Wanita chief Teo Nie Ching, who is also the Deputy Communications Minister and Kulai MP.
During the opening ceremony, Teo said that women play a vital role in DAP's leadership as 25% of its MPs are female, the highest among political parties in Malaysia.
As of 2024, 40% of DAP's membership consists of women, reflecting its strong foundation for achieving 30% representation in decision-making roles, she said.
The new committee comprises secretary Yiska Lassan, assistant secretary Jennifer Toyou, treasurer Chang Shook Yee, organising secretary Chang Lee Chu, assistant organising secretary Chin Su Ping, publicity secretary Alison Wong See Yii, her assistant Lai Shiau Lin, and political education director Grelydia Gillod.
Committee members include Pang Lee Ching, Pang Mei Yuk, Lucy Lai Nyuk Chun, Rupindi Maidin, and Noraineh Bintang @ Duanis.
